VANCOUVER - Conservative MP Jason Kenney was parachuted into Vancouver from his Calgary riding to watch the Cricket World Cup Wednesday morning with nearly 100 Indo-Canadians.

The event was just six blocks away from where Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff had planned a campaign stop. While Kenney tried to convey a policy message about human smuggling, his attendance was clearly more of a political one.

One political analyst said it was reflective of the fierce battle playing out over the immigrant vote.

UBC political scientist Richard Johnston said the party that wins the heavily ethnic ridings will likely win the next election.

"New Canadians tend to live in ridings that are swing ridings," said Johnston. "In an area where 45% of voters are non-white, it makes it a pretty important issue."

A day before Kenney's arrival, Ignatieff was courting leaders from various immigrant communities trying to sell his party's message.

"These Conservatives have spent a whole week trying to scare people," Ignatieff said Wednesday at an appearance several blocks from where Kenney was stumping. "Pitbulls, with that whole growling stuff they do."

The Conservatives have visible minorities candidates in seven Lower Mainland ridings, while the Liberals are running nine.

India defeated long-time rival Pakistan in the semi-final match Wednesday and will face Sri Lanka in the final.